Report No.: CCEER-91-5
Laboratory Studies of Polyester-Styrene Polymer Concrete Engineering
Properties
Authors: D. N. O'Connor and M. "Saiid" Saiidi
Date: November 1991
Sponsoring Agency: Nevada Department of Transportation
- Performing Organization:
- Department of Civil Engineering/258
- University of Nevada, Reno
- Reno, NV 89557
- Abstract:
- The deterioration of bridge decks, due to the corrosion of reinforcing steel, is a major
problem in the United States. Previous investigation has shown that polyester-styrene
polymer concrete overlays can provide effective protection for portland cement concrete
bridge decks.
- This report presents the results of laboratory testing of polyester-styrene polymer
concrete, which was conducted to aid the Nevada Department of Transportation in their use
of polymer concrete as a protective bridge deck overlay material. The goals of the
research included determination of strength properties of the polymer concrete currently
in use, identification of an alternate source of aggregate for use in polymer concrete,
and the determination of the optimum mixture design for each aggregate type. Tests
performed on various polyester concrete mixtures included compressive strength, flexural
strength, flow of fresh concrete, and unit weight.
- Several recommendations are made in an effort to ensure that the highest quality
polyester-styrene polymer concrete is being produced at the most economical cost.
Recommendations for additional laboratory study are also presented (Abstract by authors).